THOMASVILLE — An East Pine Tree Boulevard Internet café stormed by local law enforcement officers in early October has reopened.

A search warrant was executed at the business on Thursday, Oct. 6, by Thomasville police and Thomas County/Thomasville Narcotics/Vice Division agents.

Equipment at the business was confiscated.

About 20 customers were in the Internet cafe when the search warrant was executed.

No arrests were made as a result of the activity by lawmen.

The business, Paradise Internet Café, reopened last week.

Lt. Eric Hampton, Thomasville Police Department public information officer, referred questions about the reopening to City of Thomasville administration.

  “The Paradise Internet Café is back in operation at this time. The business has reopened after a thorough investigation by the Thomasville Police Department as to the legality of the activities at the business,” says a statement issued by city administration.

“The investigation of the Paradise Internet Café has shown that its current operations in Thomasville appear to fall within what is allowed under state law dealing with sweepstakes activities,” the statement continued.

According to the statement, the investigation was prompted by concerns about the operation of an Internet café within the city and about the possibility of illegal gambling taking place at that kind of establishment.

“As long as the Paradise Internet Café continues to operate legally, the city will not pursue charges. The city is concerned not only about the legality of the businesses operating in our community, but also about the city’s responsibility to protect the rights of all individuals and property owners in our community,” the statement says.

According to the statement, the city will monitor legislative changes that address activities allowable at Internet cafes and similar establishments.

Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1820.